Partial Breast irradiation is a minimally invasive method of delivering radiation therapy to breast cancer patients who have recently undergone a lumpectomy. The Methodist Hospital offers both Mammosite and Contura treatment modalities.
After the surgical lumpectomy is completed, a small balloon-like catheter is inserted into the lumpectomy cavity. This catheter will remain in place during radiation planning and for the duration of the five-day treatment course. During the actual treatment process, the catheter is attached to a high-dose rate machine which delivers radiation directly to the catheter to incorporate the tumor site and the area immediately surrounding the cavity.
The patient will undergo this treatment twice a day for five days. At the end of the treatment course, the balloon is deflated and permanently removed. Partial breast irradiation is becoming a suitable and convenient option for patients due to the reduction in overall treatment time.
